Lada Niva gets first full redesign in 45 years

The Lada Niva is set to be completely redesigned by 2024 following an announcement by Groupe Renault that the rugged 4x4 will be one of four all-new Ladas to be launched in the next four years.

Still on sale in Russia and some parts of Europe and Africa, the current Lada Niva is the off-roader time couldn't kill, with the little Niva staying continuously on sale since 1976 with only minor updates keeping it 'fresh' over the past four decades.

Confirming that the Niva, and all other future Lada models, will migrate to Renault's latest CMF-B modular architecture, the Russian brand has released a single image of how the 2024 Niva's styling will pay tribute to the original.

It features a bluff nose and blocky styling, a prominent bash plate and visible tow eye, all of which suggest that its new-found civility won't compromise its legendary toughness.

There's no word on what will happen under the bonnet, but it's thought the Niva will get a range of turbo-petrol and diesel engines from Renault that will be combined with permanent all-wheel drive.

A high- and low-ratio gearbox should also be available, with a long list of new electronic off-road aids to ensure you never get stuck.

Pushed more towards a Land Rover Defender rival and, even, a cut-price Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, Lada might even cash in on its heritage and raise pricing to attract lifestyle buyers attracted to its communist-chic roots.

Right-hand drive production is unlikely but possible, especially if Groupe Renault has a change of heart and decides to offer the reborn Lada to British buyers.

But an Australian launch isn't on the cards.

There's no word if Lada plans to end production of the original Niva or if it will keep producing it for select emerging markets where its emissions and crash protection remain irrelevant.

Despite its agricultural looks, the original Lada Niva was far more advanced than its blocky styling suggested. Instead of a ladder-frame chassis, engineers employed a lighter car-like monocoque chassis that offered impressive rigidity that actually boosted its off-road ability.

In the dirt, owners also benefited from a centre, front and rear differential.